How to Tackle IGCSE Geography Paper 2 (0460) – Geographical Skills

Published May 11, 2025

The IGCSE Geography Paper 2 exam can be intimidating at first glance – maps, graphs, diagrams, cross-sections, and data interpretation all packed into a 90-minute paper. But with the right strategies and preparation, this can be one of the most predictable and manageable components of your final Geography grade.

Here’s everything you need to know to go in confident and come out with top marks.

✍️ Paper Format: Know What You’re Up Against

Paper Name: Paper 2 – Geographical Skills
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes (90 minutes)
Total Marks: 60
Time Per Mark: Approx. 1.5 minutes per mark

Section Breakdown:

Question 1: ALWAYS worth 20 marks – this is the longest and most detailed question, usually based around map reading and interpretation. Spend 30 minutes on this question.
Questions 2 to 6: Each is worth 8 marks. These are based on different geographical skills like graph interpretation, weather instruments, data tables, field sketches, or satellite images. Spend 12 minutes per question.

📊 The Most Common Question Types

While questions vary year to year, some elements show up consistently:

Reading and interpreting topographic maps (especially in Question 1)
Describing and interpreting graphs (bar charts, line graphs, pie charts)
Drawing or reading cross sections
Reading and describing climate graphs or rainfall/temperature data
6-figure grid references
Measuring distances using map scales
Working with triangular graphs
Understanding and applying fieldwork techniques
Identifying and explaining weather instruments

🧠 Common Sense Wins Marks

Sometimes the best answers don’t require complex geography — they need clear, logical thinking. Here’s what to remember:

Use ALL available information: map keys, graph axes, titles, compass directions.
Stick to the question: describe when it says “describe”, explain when it says “explain”.
Be precise: “high rainfall in July (200mm)” is better than “it rains a lot in summer.”

⚠️ Tricky Bits – Be Ready!

Map questions are detailed and time-consuming. Tackle them first, but skip hard parts like the cross-section or measuring until the end.
Don’t panic about drawing skills – you’re not being marked on artistic ability, just clarity and accuracy.

📈 Describing Graphs – The Right Approach

Use both axes: reference time, category and values.
Mention highest, lowest, and general trend.
Include anomalies (anything that doesn’t fit the trend).

Example: “Between 2000 and 2010, population rose steadily from 200,000 to 450,000, peaking in 2010. An exception was in 2005, when it briefly fell.”

🗺️ Describing Maps – Use STACK

Remember this when interpreting a map:

Scale
Title
Annotations (contour lines, labels)
Compass directions
Key (legend)

Be specific: instead of “there’s a river,” say “a river flows southeast through grid square B5, next to the settlement.”

🌍 Map Reading Tips

Start by examining the key/legend — it’s your best friend.
Understand how the map is laid out: grid references, contour lines, symbols.
Use the scale to measure distances — often 1:25,000 or 1:50,000.